WTTC Report Highlights Cruise Tourism as a Powerful Force for Global Communities

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has unveiled its latest report, Cruising for Impact , showcasing the significant and far-reaching benefits cruise tourism brings to destinations and communities worldwide.

According to the report, cruise tourism is far more than a leisure activity—it is a vital economic engine that drives opportunity, supports local livelihoods, and strengthens communities across coastal and port regions.

Strong Economic Contribution

The global cruise industry continues to demonstrate impressive scale and influence. In 2024 alone, it contributed US$98.5 billion to global GDPand generated a total economic output of US$199 billion. The sector also supported 1.8 million jobsworldwide and delivered US$60.1 billion in wages, underscoring its critical role in the global economy.

WTTC’s research further reveals US$93 billion in direct cruise-related spending, much of which flows directly into local economies. This spending supports small businesses, entrepreneurs, and micro-enterprises in destinations that rely heavily on tourism.

Driving Long-Term Tourism Growth

Data from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) highlights a key trend: more than 60% of cruise passengers return to destinations they first discovered via cruise travel. This finding reinforces the sector’s ability to not only introduce travelers to new locations but also sustain long-term tourism demand and repeat visitation. WTTC supports the work by CLIA.

Supporting Jobs and Local Economies

The report emphasizes the deep integration of cruise tourism within local economies. More than 1.4 million jobs are supported onshore, demonstrating how benefits extend well beyond ships themselves.

Notably, the report finds that one full-time job is supported globally for every 20 cruise passengers, directly linking visitor numbers to employment opportunities in destinations around the world.

Seven Pillars of Positive Impact

WTTC outlines seven core pillars through which cruise tourism contributes to broader societal benefits:

WTTC’s “Cruising for Impact” Report Highlights the Positive Impact of Cruise Tourism for Communities Worldwide

Read WTTC’s press release to learn more.

• Job creation and skills development
• Diversity and inclusion
• Community enrichment
• Cultural preservation
• Infrastructure development
• Environmental innovation
• Health and crisis response

These pillars highlight how the industry contributes not only economically, but also socially and culturally.

Collaboration for Sustainable Growth

The report underscores the importance of collaboration between governments, destinations, and industry stakeholders. Through coordinated efforts, cruise tourism is increasingly aligned with sustainable development goals, ensuring that growth remains inclusive and beneficial for local communities.

Future Outlook

With global cruise passenger capacity projected to grow by 19% between 2022 and 2028, the sector is poised to play an even greater role in supporting destinations worldwide.

Gloria Guevara, President & CEO of WTTC, emphasized the long-term value of the sector:

“Cruise tourism brings real and lasting positive benefits to communities around the world.
When travellers discover a destination through cruising and choose to return, they create ongoing opportunities for local businesses, support jobs, and contribute to the long-term vitality of those communities.
This report highlights the powerful positive impact of cruise tourism, showing how it connects people, supports livelihoods, and creates shared value for destinations around the world.”

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A Path Forward

WTTC continues to support governments and industry leaders in integrating cruise tourism into national development strategies. By focusing on local sourcing, workforce development, and community partnerships, the sector can ensure its growth translates into long-term social and economic value.

The report concludes that, when aligned with sustainable practices and community priorities, cruise tourism has the potential to play an even greater role in fostering inclusive, resilient, and thriving destinations worldwide.